Huntington Beach – November 02, 2026 -- Japan-based Prime Polymer and U.S. biomaterials company Newlight Technologies have developed a polypropylene textile material with dyeability comparable to polyester (PET). The material targets the limited dyeability that has held back polypropylene fiber in apparel and footwear.

Polypropylene and Aircarbon PHB alloy accepts conventional disperse dyes

The material combines Prime Polymer's polypropylene alloy design and compounding technology with Newlight's Aircarbon® PHB. Newlight produces this biomaterial with microorganisms that convert methane.

The companies say the alloy can be processed from compound pellets into yarn, then knitted or woven into fabrics. It can be dyed with conventional disperse dye systems, the same class of dyes used for polyester. Both companies have demonstrated conversion of the material into yarn and textile structures.

Lower weight than polyester is the core performance claim

The companies list four attributes: PET-like dyeability, lower weight than polyester, mechanical performance suited to apparel and footwear, and an improved environmental profile from the Aircarbon® PHB content. They did not publish quantified data on weight, strength or environmental impact.

Multiple global brands are evaluating the material for footwear, socks and technical textiles

The material is under evaluation by multiple global brands for footwear, performance apparel, socks and technical textile products. Compatibility with disperse dyeing is intended to let it fit into existing textile supply chains.

Prime Polymer and Newlight will work with partners across the textile value chain to accelerate commercialization. The companies did not disclose pricing, production volumes or a commercial launch date.